Bhubaneswar, Sept. 23 (UDN): Founder of KIIT and KISS Achyuta Samanta has received two prestigious civic honours from municipalities in Romania in recognition of his contribution to education and social service.
Samanta was conferred Honorary Citizenship of Milișăuți, regarded as the highest civic distinction awarded by the Romanian city. He was also presented with the “Key to the City of Bârlad”, an honour symbolising trust, respect and a special bond between the recipient and the city.
Dr Manoj Kumar Mohapatra, India’s Ambassador to Romania, was present at both ceremonies.
The twin honours recognise Samanta’s longstanding work in the fields of education, social development and humanitarian service. With the distinctions, he has become the first Odia to receive such honours from two Romanian cities, according to information shared on the occasion.
Samanta Expresses Gratitude
Reacting to the recognition, Samanta described the honours as a special and humbling moment.
He said the distinctions were received in the presence of the mayors, municipal council members and other dignitaries, and described them as recognition of his lifelong commitment to education, humanity and society.
Samanta also expressed gratitude to the Indian Ambassador for attending both events and thanked the mayors and council members of Milișăuți and Bârlad for their warmth and respect.
He said the affection and honour extended by the people of Romania would remain a cherished memory.
Significance Of The Two Honours
Honorary citizenship is among the highest civic recognitions that can be granted by a Romanian municipality. The distinction is generally awarded through a decision of the city council to individuals whose work or contributions are considered worthy of special recognition. While it does not confer citizenship rights such as a passport or voting privileges, it represents an honorary association with the city.
The Key to the City of Bârlad has its roots in an old European civic tradition. Historically associated with the keys to fortified city gates, the honour came to symbolise trust and the granting of a special welcome to an individual.
The recognition bestowed on Samanta by the two municipalities reflects the esteem with which his work in education and social service was viewed by the respective civic authorities.